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Converting a Sambar to diff lock.

Discussion in 'Subaru Sambar' started by Ohkei Dohkei, Feb 18, 2019.

  1. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    So what would it take to convert a Sambar to diff lock? I'm guessing a diff lock rear axle and a switch, but what else would be required? Is it vacuum actuated or solenoid acutated?
     
  2. Maximal

    Maximal Active Member

    as far as i know theyre vacuum operated, you would need the switch and probably easiest to get the whole trans assembly from a diff lock model. more supercharged EFI models had diff lock than carbureted
     
  3. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    This would be for a 94 carb model.
     
  4. Maximal

    Maximal Active Member

    you would have to make sure the diff lock trans will bolt to the carbureted engine, i cant imagine why it wouldnt especially if the same diff lock trans was used on carb and EFI. the biggest hurdle youre going to hit is people want $1000+ for regular manual trans, diff lock wont be cheap
     
  5. Bobacuda

    Bobacuda Member

    OD - Did you finally get your truck import nightmare resolved? Is this a “new” truck?
     
  6. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

  7. Maximal

    Maximal Active Member

    Yes, Sambar are transverse rear engine so basically a reverse front wheel drive. The diff is in the transmission like a fwd car and the transfercase is bolted on the front of the trans with the driveshaft running to the front for the front diff. Suzuki carry, Daihatsu Hijet, and other mid engine longitudinal trucks have a traditional solid rear axle
     
  8. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    Thanks Max, That makes sense.
     
  9. Bobacuda

    Bobacuda Member

    OD -
    If this is the same truck, are you going to be able to import it and license it with the VIN# discrepancies?
     
  10. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    I'll let you know.
     
  11. matt167

    matt167 Active Member

    keep a check on Be Forward for parts you need. I don't think it's worth it but it would be possible
     
  12. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    I think I'll install a winch for starters and just see how it goes.
     
  13. Maximal

    Maximal Active Member

    I've driven some brutal snowy roads and in 4x4 have never gotten stuck, Sambar being rear engine the weight balance is perfect. Diff lock isnt really needed imo
     
  14. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    I bet I have to winch it out at least 3 times in the first year. If I have to eat my words, I'll be happy.
     
  15. Maximal

    Maximal Active Member

    theyre pretty capable little things, i bought a winch years back but never ended up using it since ive never gotten stuck. you'll go through a 4x4 vacuum solenoid before needing a winch
     
  16. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    I wish Aussie locker made a unit for the front of these things. I had one on my Scout (with a power-lok lsd rear), and it was unstoppable!
     
  17. Kyle P

    Kyle P New Member

    I'm curious if anyone ever got this figured. It looks like I need to do my clutch and was wondering if I could give it an upgrade in the process.

    Cheers!
     
  18. LostBox

    LostBox New Member

    I second that. I'm curious/interested.
     
  19. Ohkei Dohkei

    Ohkei Dohkei Active Member

    well I've had to winch it out 3 times, but it took 4 years.
     

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